IAF Chief Reveals Reasons Behind Disclosure of Pakistani Aircraft Shootdowns

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Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has opened up about the Indian Air Force’s decision to publicly confirm the shooting down of five Pakistani fighter aircraft and one airborne surveillance aircraft during Operation Sindoor, marking a shift in India’s traditional stance on military disclosures.

Speaking at a public forum, the IAF Chief said there were two primary reasons for the unprecedented move. First, he cited the credibility gap that followed the 2019 Balakot airstrikes. At that time, the absence of visual or technical proof had led to skepticism and political debate. Singh said the IAF was determined not to let similar doubts linger over Operation Sindoor. He stressed that this time, the IAF had collected and preserved satellite images, radar data, and other irrefutable evidence to support its claims.

Second, the disclosure came in response to mounting political criticism. Opposition leaders had questioned whether the military had been given full freedom to act, suggesting political hesitancy. Singh dismissed these concerns, asserting that the operation had the complete backing of the government and that the armed forces operated with no restrictions. He praised the “clear political will” that allowed the IAF to act swiftly and decisively.

During Operation Sindoor, Indian forces struck key targets, including hangars housing F-16s, airbases, radar stations, and command centers in Pakistan. The IAF used long-range precision weapons to ensure accuracy and minimal collateral damage. The strikes were supported by real-time coordination between the Air Force, Army, and Navy.

The decision to go public, Singh noted, was not political but strategic, aimed at reinforcing public trust and deterring future aggression. The operation has since been widely viewed as a demonstration of India’s military capabilities and its evolving approach to transparency in defense matters.